Art auction to benefit autism awareness, services

Northborough – The Friendship Network for Children, a mental health non-profit organization that provides counseling, groups and advocacy for children and teens with autism, will be hosting Art for Autism Saturday, April 27. The event will take place from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at Parish Hall, 40 Church St, Northborough. The goal of the event is to increase mental health awareness while raising money to go towards the Friendship Network's comprehensive mental health services.

The Friendship Network relies on the money raised from this annual fundraising event to continue helping those in need. To increase awareness of the need for autism connection and understanding, the Student-to-Student Autism Connection will be giving a presentation at the event. The S.A.C was created four years ago with the guidance of longtime Worcester county resident and founder of the Friendship Network Nancy Swanberg.

Internationally and locally recognized artists Andy and Veronica Fish have made art donations to support the silent art auction. The art auction will include artwork from professional painters such as Littorio Del Signore, sculptures, potters, photographers and artisans. Other features of the day will include a raffle with items such as; Boston Bruins hockey puck autographed by Nathan Horton, Boston Red Sox baseball autographed by Clay Buchholz, Bose radio dock, gift certificates, jewelry and more. There will also be an interactive art experience to increase connection between attendees as well as delicious refreshments catered by Lolli Cakes and a wonderful door prize.